The Mating
Chapter 22 It isn’t planned. That’s the first sign it’s real. The bond tightens between them quietly, without urgency, without command. Kael feels it while standing watch at the edge of Rowan’s territory— Amina’s presence settling beside him like it’s always belonged there. No pull. No pressure. Just knowing. “You’re staying,” he says softly. Amina doesn’t pretend otherwise. “Yes.” The word carries weight. Choice always does. Their wolves stir—not restless, not demanding. Aligned. This is right, Kael’s wolf murmurs. Amina exhales slowly, fingers brushing the mark at her wrist, then lowering. No pack sigils. No Ashira distance. “I won’t bind you if it costs you your freedom,” she says. Kael turns to face her fully. “You won’t take it. That’s the difference.” Silence se
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